'I'm a tormentor of racists!' - Vinicius Jr warns abusers to 'hide in the shadows' after three Valencia fans are jailed for attacks on Real Madrid star

Receiving justice for just one of the instances of abhorrent racist abuse directed towards him by opposition fans, Vini felt rightly vindicated by pursuing action against them.

Three Valencia fans pointed out by Vinicius at the time during a game at the Mestalla in May 2023 were each sentenced to eight months in prison and issued two-year football bans. It is the first time in Spanish football history that such convictions have come.

"Many asked me to ignore it, many others said that my fight was in vain and that I should just 'play football'," Vini said. "But, as I've always said, I'm not a victim of racism. I am a tormentor of racists. This first criminal conviction in the history of Spain is not for me. It's for all black people. May other racists be afraid, ashamed and hide in the shadows. Otherwise, I'll be here to collect. Thank you to La Liga and Real Madrid for helping with this historic conviction. More to come…"

A La Liga and Champions League winner in 2023-24, Vini is already among the favourites for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, alongside team-mate Jude Bellingham. But his claim for the prize would be strengthened even further should he be successful with Brazil at the Copa America, which begins on June 20.